The chapter “Aids to Health” explains the various tools and methods we use to protect our bodies from diseases and to provide immediate care during injuries or illnesses. It moves beyond the body’s natural defense systems to explore the external aids developed by medical science.
The chapter is broadly divided into three key areas:
1. Health Aids and Chemicals
This section covers the substances used to kill or inhibit disease-causing microbes.
Antiseptics: These are mild chemical substances like Dettol or Savlon that can be applied to living tissues such as skin, wounds, and cuts to prevent infection by killing or stopping the growth of microbes.
Disinfectants: These are stronger chemicals like phenol or bleach that are used on non-living objects like floors, drains, and instruments to kill pathogens. They are too harsh to be applied to the skin.
Antibiotics: These are powerful medicines, obtained from microorganisms like fungi and bacteria, that kill or inhibit specific bacteria inside our body. Examples include Penicillin (from a fungus) and Tetracycline. The chapter also warns about the dangers of antibiotic overuse, which can lead to bacterial resistance.
2. Immunity and Vaccination
This part explains how we can train our body’s immune system to fight diseases.
Immunity is the body’s ability to resist a particular disease.
Vaccination is a preventive technique based on the principle of “memory” in our immune system. A vaccine contains weakened or dead pathogens or their toxins. When injected, it stimulates the body to produce antibodies without causing the actual disease. If the real pathogen attacks later, the immune system remembers it and quickly produces a massive amount of antibodies, thus providing immunity. Vaccines like BCG (for TB) and DTP (for Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) are common examples.
3. First Aid
First Aid is the immediate and temporary care given to an injured or sick person before professional medical help arrives. The chapter outlines basic procedures for common situations:
Bleeding: Apply direct pressure on the wound with a clean cloth.
Fractures: Immobilize the injured part to prevent further damage.
Burns: Cool the area with running water.
Snake Bite: Keep the victim calm and immobilize the bitten limb to slow the spread of venom.
Electric Shock: Disconnect the power source before touching the victim.
Poisoning: Try to identify the poison and seek medical help immediately.
In conclusion, this chapter teaches us that while our body has its own defense mechanisms, we can significantly support our health through the intelligent use of antiseptics, antibiotics, vaccines, and proper first aid techniques.
A. Multiple Choice Type
1) Penicillin is:
i) An antiseptic
ii) A disinfectant
iii) An antibiotic
iv) An enzyme
Ans:i) An antiseptic
2) The “TT” vaccination stands for:
i) Tuberculosis
ii) Tetanus toxoid
iii) Typhoid
iv) Typhus
Ans:iii) Typhoid
3) World Health Day is celebrated on:
i) January 15
ii) October 7
iii) February 21
iv) April 7
Ans: iv) April 7
B. Very Short Answer Type
1)Name the following:
(a) The drug based on arsenic compound, produced by Paul Ehrlich to cure syphilis.
(b) The antibiotic was first discovered from.
(c) The company of immunity acquired in the treatment of a disease.
(d) Any four antiseptics, any two disinfectants and any two antibiotics.
(e) The bacterium that helps to produce immunity against polio.
(a) The drug based on arsenic compound, produced by Paul Ehrlich to cure syphilis.
Ans: Salvarsan
(b) The antibiotic was first discovered from.
Ans: A fungus (specifically, the mould Penicillium notatum)
(c) The category of immunity acquired in the treatment of a disease.
Ans: Artificial active immunity
(d)Any four antiseptics: Iodine, Hydrogen Peroxide, Boric acid, Savlon
Ans: Any two disinfectants: Phenol, Bleaching powder (Sodium hypochlorite)
Any two antibiotics: Penicillin, Tetracycline
(e) The bacterium that helps to produce immunity against polio.
Ans: Escherichia coli (This is used in the genetic engineering process to produce the antigen for the vaccine, not to provide immunity directly itself).
2)What is the full form of BCG, AIDS, DPT, DDT, WHO?
Ans: 1.BCG
Full Form: Bacillus Calmette-Guérin
Explanation: This is not a disease, but rather a vaccine. It is primarily used to protect against tuberculosis (TB). The vaccine is named after the two French bacteriologists, Albert Calmette and Camille Guérin, who developed it.
2. AIDS
Full Form: Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
Explanation: This is a serious condition caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The virus weakens a person’s immune system, making them vulnerable to other infections and diseases. “Acquired” means it is not inherited, but contracted.
3. DPT
Full Form: Diphtheria, Pertussis, and Tetanus
Explanation: This is a combination vaccine that provides protection against three different diseases: Diphtheria (a serious throat infection), Pertussis (whooping cough), and Tetanus (which causes painful muscle stiffness).
4. DDT
Full Form: Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane
Explanation: This is a synthetic chemical, not a medical term. It was one of the first widely used insecticides. While it was very effective in controlling malaria and typhus by killing mosquitoes and other insects in the mid-20th century, it was later banned in many countries due to its harmful environmental and health effects.
5. WHO
Full Form: World Health Organization
Explanation: This is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Its primary role is to direct and coordinate global health efforts, shape health research agendas, set norms and standards, and provide support to countries around the world.
3)Give the technical term for the kind of process produced in the blood to fight and destroy harmful microbes.
Ans: The technical term for the process by which the blood fights and destroys harmful microbes is Phagocytosis.This is a fundamental defense mechanism carried out by specific white blood cells, primarily neutrophils and macrophages. These cells, known as phagocytes, act like patrolling soldiers. When they encounter a harmful microbe like a bacterium, they extend parts of their cell membrane to surround, engulf, and ingest the invader. Once inside the cell, the microbe is trapped in a vesicle and destroyed by powerful digestive enzymes.
4)Define the following: (a) Device used to check bleeding.
(b) Support tied to arm in case of fracture.
(c) A substance to kill pests and destroy diseases.
(d) Chemical substances which destroy microorganisms and prevent their further growth. (e) The treatment in a person who has stopped breathing.
Ans: (a) Device used to check bleeding.
A tourniquet is a medical device designed to control severe, life-threatening bleeding from a limb. It functions by applying intense, focused pressure to a limb, which compresses the main arteries and halts blood flow to the wound site. Typically considered a last-resort measure when direct pressure is insufficient, it is applied to the upper arm or thigh. Modern versions are engineered for rapid, one-handed application, making them an essential tool in emergency first-aid kits and combat situations.
(b) Support tied to arm in case of fracture.
An arm sling is a support used to immobilize an injured arm, commonly in cases of a fracture, dislocation, or severe sprain. It is often fashioned from a triangular bandage that cradles the forearm and is tied around the neck. The primary function of a sling is to hold the arm in a stable, elevated position against the body, which minimizes movement at the injury site. This rest helps to alleviate pain, prevent further damage to bones and tissues, and support the healing process.
(c) A substance to kill pests and destroy diseases.
A pesticide is a chemical or biological agent used to manage and eliminate organisms considered pests. This is a broad category that includes specific types such as insecticides (for insects), herbicides (for unwanted plants or weeds), fungicides (for fungal diseases), and rodenticides (for rodents). By controlling these pests, pesticides play a significant role in agriculture, helping to protect crops from destruction and prevent the spread of diseases that can affect both plants and humans.
(d) Chemical substances which destroy microorganisms and prevent their further growth.
An antiseptic is a chemical substance that is safe to apply to living skin and tissues to eliminate or inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Commonly used to clean cuts, scrapes, and surgical sites, antiseptics are a crucial first-line defense against infections. It is important to differentiate them from disinfectants, which are stronger chemicals used to sterilize non-living surfaces and objects but are not safe for direct application to the body.
(e) The treatment in a person who has stopped breathing.
The immediate life-saving procedure for a person who has stopped breathing is rescue breathing, also known as artificial ventilation. This technique is a core component of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The rescuer provides breaths to the non-breathing person by tilting the head back to open the airway, sealing their mouth over the victim’s, and blowing steadily to inflate the lungs. This action delivers a supply of oxygen directly to the person’s bloodstream, which is vital for sustaining life until normal breathing function returns or professional medical assistance can take over.
C. Short Answer Type
1)(a) Lycol is an antiseptic.
(b) Lysol and dettol contain tarn killing substance.
(c) Our body can make only a limited variety of antibodies. (Correct the statement)
(d) AIDS vaccines are prepared against retroviruses.
(e) Treatment by the use of chemicals is known as antibiotics.
(f) Alexander Fleming coined the term “antibiotics” for substances like penicillin.
Ans: (a) Lycol is an antiseptic.
Correction: Lysol is an antiseptic.(T)
(Explanation: The correct spelling of the common antiseptic brand is “Lysol,” not “Lycol.”)
(b) Lysol and dettol contain tarn killing substance.
Correction: Lysol and Dettol contain germ-killing substances.(F)
(Explanation: The intended word is “germ,” not “tarn.” These products contain chemicals like chloroxylenol that kill microorganisms.)
(c) Our body can make only a limited variety of antibodies.
Correction: Our body can make a vast, almost unlimited, variety of antibodies.(F)
(Explanation: The immune system has an incredible ability to generate a highly diverse repertoire of antibodies to recognize and combat a seemingly infinite number of pathogens.)
(d) AIDS vaccines are prepared against retroviruses.
Correction: AIDS vaccines are prepared against the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), which is a retrovirus.(F)
(Explanation: The statement is technically correct but imprecise. AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is the condition caused by the specific retrovirus, HIV. Vaccines are developed against the virus (HIV), not the syndrome (AIDS) itself.)
(e) Treatment by the use of chemicals is known as antibiotics.
Correction: Treatment by the use of chemicals is known as chemotherapy. Treatment by the use of antibiotics specifically targets bacterial infections.(T)
(Explanation: “Chemotherapy” is the broad term for using chemicals to treat disease, which includes antibiotics (for bacteria), antiviral drugs, and anticancer drugs. “Antibiotics” are a specific class of chemotherapeutic agents.)
(f) Alexander Fleming coined the term “antibiotics” for substances like penicillin.
Correction: Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin. The term “antibiotic” was coined later by Selman Waksman.(T)
(Explanation: While Alexander Fleming discovered the first true antibiotic (penicillin) in 1928, it was the microbiologist Selman Waksman who proposed the term “antibiotic” in the 1940s.)
2)Differentiate between: (a) Antiseptic and antibiotic.
(b) Antiseptic and disinfectant.
(c) Disinfectant and deodoriser.
(d) Active and passive immunity.
(e) Natural and acquired immunity.
(f) Innate immunity and acquired immunity.
Ans: (a) Antiseptic vs. Antibiotic
The fundamental difference between an antiseptic and an antibiotic lies in their target and application. An antiseptic is a chemical substance, like hydrogen peroxide or iodine, which is applied to living tissues such as skin, wounds, or mucous membranes to destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, thereby preventing infection. Its action is broad and non-specific. In contrast, an antibiotic is a type of antimicrobial drug, such as penicillin or amoxicillin, that is administered systemically (orally or via injection) to combat established bacterial infections inside the body. Antibiotics work by specifically targeting and disrupting vital processes of bacteria, either killing them (bactericidal) or stopping their reproduction (bacteriostatic), and they are generally ineffective against viruses or fungi.
(b) Antiseptic vs. Disinfectant
While both antiseptics and disinfectants are chemical agents that eliminate pathogens, their key distinction is the surface on which they are used. Antiseptics are designed for use on living tissues and are formulated to be gentle enough not to cause significant damage to skin or cells; they are used for cleansing wounds or pre-surgical hand scrubs. Disinfectants, however, are much stronger and more potent chemicals, like bleach or formaldehyde, intended for use on inanimate objects and surfaces such as floors, tables, and surgical instruments. Using a disinfectant on living tissue would cause severe chemical burns, highlighting that disinfectants are for sanitizing non-living environments to break the chain of infection.
(c) Disinfectant vs. Deodoriser
A disinfectant and a deodoriser serve entirely different primary purposes, though some products may combine both functions. A disinfectant’s primary role is germicidal; it is designed to destroy or inactivate harmful microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi on surfaces, thereby reducing the risk of disease transmission. A deodoriser, on the other hand, is designed to mask, neutralize, or eliminate unpleasant odours from the air or from fabrics. It does not necessarily kill germs; it simply addresses the smell, which can be caused by bacteria, chemicals, or other sources. Essentially, a disinfectant tackles the cause of an infection, while a deodoriser tackles the symptom of a bad smell.
(d) Active vs. Passive Immunity
Active and passive immunity represent two ways the body can be protected from pathogens, differentiated by the source of the antibodies and the longevity of the protection. Active immunity occurs when the body’s own immune system is stimulated to produce its own antibodies and memory cells in response to an antigen. This can happen through natural infection or through vaccination. The key advantage is that it provides long-lasting, sometimes lifelong, protection. Passive immunity, conversely, involves the direct transfer of ready-made antibodies from another source into an individual. Examples include a baby receiving antibodies through the placenta or breast milk, or a person receiving an injection of antitoxin. The protection in passive immunity is immediate but short-lived, as the borrowed antibodies are eventually broken down by the body and no memory cells are created.
(e) Natural vs. Acquired Immunity
Natural and acquired immunity are subcategories that describe how immunity is obtained. Natural immunity is gained without any deliberate medical intervention. For instance, natural active immunity is acquired by surviving a disease, while natural passive immunity is acquired by a baby receiving maternal antibodies. Acquired immunity, in its specific context, refers to immunity that is obtained through a deliberate, external action. This includes receiving a vaccine (which is acquired active immunity) or an injection of antibodies like in immune globulin therapy (which is acquired passive immunity). In essence, “natural” refers to biologically inherent processes, while “acquired” refers to medically induced or therapeutic means.
(f) Innate Immunity vs. Acquired Immunity
Innate immunity and acquired immunity (also called adaptive immunity) represent the two fundamental, complementary branches of the immune system, differing in their specificity and memory. Innate immunity is the body’s first line of defense, present from birth. It is non-specific, meaning it acts against all foreign substances in the same general way, through barriers like skin, chemicals like stomach acid, and immune cells like phagocytes that engulf invaders. It responds immediately but does not confer long-term immunity. Acquired immunity, in contrast, is highly specific and develops throughout life. It recognizes and remembers specific pathogens using antibodies and specialized lymphocytes (B-cells and T-cells). Upon a second exposure to the same pathogen, the acquired immune system mounts a much faster and stronger response, which is the principle behind vaccination.
3)Name any three vaccines and the diseases for which they provide immunity.
Ans: 1. MMR Vaccine
This is a single shot that actually protects against three different viral illnesses: Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (German measles). Before this vaccine was widely used, these diseases were very common in childhood. Measles is known for its high fever and distinctive red rash, mumps can cause painful swelling of the salivary glands, and rubella is particularly dangerous for pregnant women as it can cause serious birth defects.
2. Tdap Vaccine
The Tdap vaccine is a crucial booster shot that provides immunity against three serious bacterial infections: Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis (whooping cough). Tetanus, often called lockjaw, enters the body through cuts or wounds and causes severe muscle stiffness. Diphtheria can lead to a thick covering in the back of the throat, making it hard to breathe. Pertussis, or whooping cough, is a highly contagious respiratory illness known for violent, uncontrollable coughing fits that can be especially severe and life-threatening for infants.
3. Polio Vaccine (IPV)
The Inactivated Polio Vaccine, or IPV, protects against the poliovirus. This virus is highly contagious and attacks the nervous system, which can lead to permanent paralysis. Thanks to widespread vaccination efforts, polio has been eliminated from most parts of the world, but the vaccine remains essential to prevent it from returning. The vaccine we use today is an inactivated (killed) virus given as a shot, which is both safe and highly effective.
4)Given below is a scheme of classifying immunity. Name the types of immunity in the boxes (a-f). (The image shows a classification chart of Immunity with blanks (a) to (f)).
Ans: (a) Innate Immunity is the non-specific, natural defense system we are born with. It acts as the first line of defense against pathogens.
(b) Acquired Immunity is pathogen-specific immunity that develops throughout our lives. It is characterized by memory, leading to a stronger and faster response upon subsequent exposure to the same pathogen.Acquired Immunity can be further subdivided based on how the immunity is acquired:
(c) Active Immunity is when the body produces its own antibodies and immune cells in response to an antigen. This is long-lasting.
(d) Passive Immunity is when ready-made antibodies are transferred to an individual. This provides immediate but short-term protection.
Both Active and Passive immunity can be acquired through different means:
Active Immunity is of two types:
(e) Natural Active Immunity (e.g., immunity acquired after recovering from an infection).
(f) Artificial Active Immunity (e.g., immunity acquired through vaccination).
Passive Immunity is of two types:
Natural Passive Immunity (e.g., transfer of antibodies from mother to fetus via the placenta).
Artificial Passive Immunity (e.g., injection of antibodies, as in antivenom serum).
5)Given below are the groups of certain substances of particular categories. Mention the category of each group and identify the one wrong example in it giving reason.
(a) Lysol, benzoic acid, DDT, mercurochrome.
(b) Formalin, iodine, lysol, phenol.
(c) BCG, DTP, ATP.
(d) Tears, skin, nasal secretion, HCl (in stomach).
Ans: a) Category: Antiseptics
Wrong Example: DDT
Reason: DDT (Dichloro-Diphenyl-Trichloroethane) is primarily an insecticide, not an antiseptic. It is used to kill insects like mosquitoes and agricultural pests. While it can kill microbes, it is highly toxic to humans and the environment and is not used on living tissues like skin or wounds. Lysol, benzoic acid, and mercurochrome, however, are all substances that can be applied to living tissues to prevent sepsis by inhibiting or killing microorganisms.
(b) Category: Disinfectants
Wrong Example: Iodine (specifically, common tincture of iodine used as an antiseptic)
Reason: Iodine, in the common form of tincture of iodine or povidone-iodine, is widely used as an antiseptic on skin and wounds. Disinfectants are stronger substances used to destroy microorganisms on non-living objects like floors, drains, and instruments. Formalin, lysol, and phenol are potent chemicals typically used for disinfecting surfaces and are generally too harsh for direct application on living tissues.
(c) Category: Vaccines
Wrong Example: ATP
Reason: ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is not a vaccine. It is a universal energy-carrying molecule found in the cells of all living organisms, essential for metabolism. BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guérin) and DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis) are well-known vaccines that provide immunity against tuberculosis and a combination of three diseases, respectively.
(d) Category: Natural/Biological Barriers of the Body
Wrong Example: Skin
Reason: While the skin is a crucial physical barrier, it is not a secretion. The category in this group refers to specific chemical or fluid-based defenses that trap or destroy pathogens. Tears, nasal secretions, and HCl in the stomach are all secretions with chemical properties (like the enzyme lysozyme in tears or the strong acid in the stomach) that actively combat microbes. The skin is a static, physical, and anatomical barrier, making it the odd one out in this list of secretions.
6)List any four ways in which antibiotics are being used.
Ans: Antibiotics are used in the following ways:
- To Treat Bacterial Infections: They are used to cure diseases caused by bacteria, such as tuberculosis, typhoid, and pneumonia.
- To Treat Infected Wounds: Antibiotics are applied as creams or given orally to prevent or treat bacterial infections in cuts and burns.
- In Surgery: They are administered before and after surgical procedures to prevent bacterial infections at the operation site.
- In Animal Husbandry: They are sometimes added to animal feed to treat and prevent bacterial diseases in livestock, promoting their growth.
7)List the merits of local defence systems.
Ans:
- The local defence systems (also known as innate or non-specific immunity) provide the body’s first and immediate line of defence. Their key merits are:
- Immediate Response: They are always active and ready to fight pathogens the moment they enter the body, providing instant protection.
- Non-Specific Action: They offer a general defence, effectively working against a wide range of different disease-causing germs without needing to identify the specific type.
- No Prior Exposure Needed: Unlike adaptive immunity, these systems are functional from birth and do not require a previous encounter with a pathogen to be effective.
- Physical and Chemical Barrier: They prevent the entry of pathogens altogether through mechanisms like the skin, mucous membranes, and antimicrobial secretions (e.g., tears, stomach acid).
8)Suppose a person develops the disease diphtheria. Comment upon the principle of the treatment he should receive.
Ans: The main principle of treating diphtheria is to neutralize the toxin and eliminate the bacteria.Diphtheria is dangerous because the bacteria release a powerful toxin that damages tissues, especially in the heart and nerves. Therefore, treatment must be started immediately and involves:
- Diphtheria Antitoxin: This is the most critical step. The patient is given an injection of readymade antibodies (antitoxin) that specifically target and neutralize the diphtheria toxin circulating in the bloodstream before it can cause more damage.
- Antibiotics: Drugs like penicillin or erythromycin are administered to kill the Corynebacterium diphtheriae bacteria, stopping them from producing more toxin and clearing the infection.
- Supportive Care: This includes isolation to prevent spread, and managing symptoms, such as ensuring the airway is not blocked by the thick grey membrane that forms in the throat.
9) What first aid steps would you take in the following cases of accident?
(a) Bleeding from a cut in the skin.
(b) A fractured arm.
(c) Stoppage of breathing due to electrical shock.
Ans: (a) Bleeding from a cut in the skin.
Wear gloves if available to protect yourself.
Apply direct pressure on the cut with a clean cloth, gauze, or sterile dressing.
Elevate the injured part above the level of the heart, if possible, to reduce blood flow to the area.
If bleeding soaks through the cloth, do not remove it; add another layer on top and continue pressure.
Once bleeding stops, gently clean the wound with water, apply an antiseptic, and cover it with a clean bandage.
(b) A fractured arm.
Tell the person not to move the injured arm.
Do not try to straighten a bent or deformed bone.
Immobilize the arm using a splint. You can use a rolled-up newspaper, a sturdy stick, or even fold the arm against the chest. Secure the splint above and below the fracture site with bandages or cloth strips.
Use a sling to support the arm and keep it close to the body. This minimizes movement and reduces pain.
Apply a cold pack (wrapped in a cloth) to the area to reduce swelling and pain.
Seek medical help immediately for proper diagnosis and casting.
(c) Stoppage of breathing due to electrical shock.
Ensure the scene is safe. Do not touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source. Turn off the main power or use a dry, non-conductive object (like a wooden broomstick) to move the wire away from them.
Check for responsiveness. Gently tap the person and shout, “Are you okay?”Call for emergency medical help immediately.Check for breathing. Look, listen, and feel for breaths.If they are not breathing, begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation):Pinch the nose shut, take a normal breath, and make a complete seal over their mouth with yours.Give 2 rescue breaths, each lasting about 1 second, and make the chest rise.Place the heel of one hand on the center of the chest and perform chest compressions—push hard and fast (about 100-120 compressions per minute).Continue cycles of 30 compressions to 2 breaths until help arrives or the person starts breathing on their own.
D. LONG ANSWER TYPE
1)The principle of vaccination is to produce immunity against a disease. Explain
Ans: The principle of vaccination is based on training the body’s immune system to recognize and fight a specific pathogen without causing the actual disease. This is done by introducing a weakened or dead form of the disease-causing microbe (or a part of it, like a protein) into the body.This introduced material is called a vaccine. Since the pathogen is weakened or inactive, it does not make the person seriously ill. However, the body’s immune system treats it as a real threat and produces special proteins called antibodies to fight it off.Crucially, the immune system creates memory cells that remain in the body for a long time. If the real, active pathogen ever invades in the future, these memory cells recognize it immediately and trigger a rapid, powerful production of antibodies. This quick response destroys the invader before it can establish an infection and cause illness, thus providing immunity.
2)”Abnormally, large number of WBCs in the blood are usually an indication of some infection in our body.” Comment on the statement.
Ans: This statement is correct and highlights a key function of our immune system. White Blood Cells (WBCs), or leukocytes, are the body’s primary defense army against infections caused by germs like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.When a harmful microbe enters the body, it is recognized as a threat. In response, the immune system goes into action and starts producing a larger number of WBCs to fight off these invaders. This increased production leads to a higher-than-normal count of WBCs in the blood, a condition known as leukocytosis.Therefore, when a blood test shows an abnormally high WBC count, it is a strong clinical sign that the body is actively fighting an infection somewhere. It’s like the body raising more soldiers to win a battle against the invading pathogens.
3)Explain briefly, the role of the following health aids:
(a) Antiseptics
(b) Disinfectants
(c) Vaccines
Ans: (a) Antiseptics
Antiseptics are chemical substances that are applied to living tissues, such as skin, wounds, and cuts, to kill or stop the growth of disease-causing microorganisms. They help prevent infections in damaged skin and are safe for external use on the body. Common examples include Dettol and Savlon.
(b) Disinfectants
Disinfectants are strong chemical substances that are used on non-living objects and surfaces, such as floors, drains, and instruments, to destroy pathogens. They are not safe for application on the skin because they can cause severe damage to living tissues. Examples include phenol and bleach.
(c) Vaccines
Vaccines are biological preparations that provide acquired immunity against a specific infectious disease. They contain weakened or killed forms of a germ or its parts. When administered, they stimulate the body’s immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells. This prepares the body to fight off a future infection quickly and effectively, thus preventing the disease.
4) Define first aid.
First aid is the immediate and initial assistance or care given to a person who has been injured or has suddenly fallen ill before the arrival of a qualified medical professional or before the person can be taken to a hospital. The main goals are to preserve life, prevent the condition from worsening, and promote recovery.
4)Describe briefly the first aid treatment you would carry out in the following cases:
(a) Little toe in the foot is pierced by a thorn and is bleeding.
(b) An elderly woman walking on the footpath during a hot mid-day has fallen unconscious.
(c) A young boy has burnt his finger tip while firing crackers.
(d) Your gardener has been bitten by a snake while digging soil in the flower bed.
(e) Your friend has received an electric shock.
(f) Your little brother has swallowed a poisonous liquid.
Ans: (a) Little toe pierced by a thorn and bleeding:
Gently clean the area around the thorn with soap and water.Use a pair of sterilized tweezers (clean them with rubbing alcohol) to firmly grip the thorn and pull it out in the same direction it went in.Once the thorn is out, let the wound bleed a little to flush out germs.Press a clean cloth on the area to stop the bleeding.Apply an antiseptic cream (like Betadine) and cover it with a sterile bandage.
(b) Elderly woman unconscious on a hot mid-day:
This is likely a case of heatstroke.Call for an ambulance immediately.Quickly move her to a cool, shaded place.Lay her on her back and slightly raise her legs to improve blood flow to the brain.Loosen any tight clothing.Try to cool her down by wiping her body with a wet cloth or spraying cool water, and fanning her. You can also apply ice packs to her armpits, neck, and groin.If she is conscious and able to swallow, give her sips of an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) or cool water.
(c) Young boy burnt his finger tip with crackers:
Immediately cool the burnt area by holding it under cool (not ice-cold) running water for at least 10-20 minutes.Gently pat the area dry with a clean, soft cloth. Do not rub.Apply a burn relief cream like Silver Sulfadiazine.Cover the burn with a sterile, non-stick gauze bandage. Do not use cotton wool as it may stick to the wound.If the burn is severe or blisters are large, seek medical help.
(d) Gardener bitten by a snake:
Stay calm and call for medical help or take the person to a hospital immediately. Try to remember the snake’s color and shape to describe it, but do not waste time chasing it.Make the person sit or lie down quietly. Tell them not to move the bitten part, as movement can spread the venom faster. Do NOT cut the wound, try to suck out the venom, or apply a tourniquet.Cover the bite with a clean, dry cloth.
(e) Friend received an electric shock:
Your safety first! Do not touch the person if they are still in contact with the electrical source.Turn off the main power supply. If that’s not possible, use a dry, non-conductive object like a wooden broomstick or a rubber mat to separate the person from the source.Once the person is clear, check their breathing and pulse.If they are not breathing, begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately if you are trained Call for an ambulance. Even if the person seems fine, they need to see a doctor as internal injuries can occur.
(f) Little brother swallowed a poisonous liquid:
Remain calm and call for an ambulance or a poison control center right away.Do not try to make him vomit, as this can cause more harm.If his lips or mouth are burned from the chemical, rinse his mouth with cool water.Try to identify the poison and keep its container ready to show the doctor.Watch for signs like vomiting, drowsiness, or seizures and inform the medical team.
5) Name any five antibiotics. State their source and the disease against which they are used.
Ans: Penicillin, one of the earliest discovered antibiotics, is derived from the fungus Penicillium notatum. It is highly effective against a range of bacterial infections, including strep throat and syphilis. Streptomycin is sourced from the bacterium Streptomyces griseus and is a key drug used to treat tuberculosis. Tetracycline, also obtained from Streptomyces bacteria, is a broad-spectrum antibiotic used for ailments like acne and cholera. Erythromycin, produced by the bacterium Saccharopolyspora erythraea, is often prescribed for people allergic to penicillin to treat infections such as diphtheria and whooping cough. Finally, Chloramphenicol, which comes from Streptomyces venezuelae, is used as a last-resort treatment for serious infections like typhoid fever and meningitis.
